Lise Wolff
Exploring the development of an N=1 case study model for herbalists
Abstract
Aims and objectives: The aim of this paper is to provide an accessible single case study protocol that professional herbalists can use in practice to produce scientifically sound research that may contribute to the growing field of herbal research.
Background: CAM, including herbal medicine, is widely used in the U.S., yet there is little scientific evidence supporting its efficacy. Herbalists are currently uninvolved in scientific research concerning their own medicine. It is likely that herbalists would like to contribute to the development of the knowledge base in their field of herbal research, yet many practicing herbalists are limited by time, research knowledge, and resources to conduct large scale studies. This study was undertaken to determine if a clear, understandable and accessible method for herbalists to conduct meaningful research could be developed using the single subject design (N=1).
Design and methods: Published literature from the biomedical, social science, and complementary medicine fields, are systematically explored and critically reviewed considering issues of usefulness, validity, model options and design. Benefits and limitations of various N=1 models’ relevance to herbalism is explored and critically evaluated to create an herbal case study model skeleton, including a visual display.
Results: Using the N=1 pre- and post-test model, previously used by CAM researchers, detailed guidelines and examples, in the format of a protocol, are provided for herbalists to implement in practice.
Conclusions: The N=1 pre- and post-test case study design provides a scientifically sound, yet accessible and appropriate method for herbalists to conduct meaningful research which can contribute to the growth and maturation of their profession. Scientifically sound herbal research by herbalists may also educate the biomedical community, providing foundational data suggesting medicinal use of herbs for future funded studies, as well as serving to inform conventional medical practitioners of the efficacy of individualized herbal treatment, thereby improving the status of professional herbalists.
